You’ve done the hard part—months (or even years) of braces or Invisalign. Your teeth look amazing. But now comes the part that truly locks in those results: your retainers.
At Carr Orthodontics, we help patients across Chico, Orland, and Paradise keep their smiles straight for life with customized, comfortable retainers. Here's what you need to know.
What Is a Retainer? A retainer is an appliance that holds your teeth in their new position after orthodontic treatment. Without one, teeth naturally begin to shift—often very quickly.
Why Teeth Shift After Braces:
- The bone and ligaments around teeth need time to stabilize
- Tongue pressure, chewing, and jaw movement can push teeth out of place
- Aging and natural changes in your bite cause minor shifting
Types of Retainers: At Carr Orthodontics, we offer:
- Clear Retainers (Essix-style):
- Thin, clear plastic that fits snugly over teeth
- Virtually invisible and easy to wear
- Great for patients who used Invisalign or want minimal visibility
- Hawley Retainers:
- Acrylic and metal wire design
- Adjustable and durable
- Customizable in color or design
- Fixed (Bonded) Retainers:
- A thin wire bonded behind front teeth
- Ideal for patients with a history of relapse
- Offers passive retention 24/7
How Often Do I Need to Wear It? Every patient is different, but a general guideline is:
- First 6–12 months: Full-time wear (except eating and brushing)
- After 1 year: Nighttime wear for life (3–5 nights per week)
Skipping your retainer—even for a few days—can cause noticeable shifting.
What If I Lose or Break It? Life happens! We offer affordable retainer replacements and quick turnaround times. If your retainer no longer fits or you’ve lost it, call us immediately to prevent relapse.
Relapsed Teeth? We Can Help. Minor relapse is common—and often treatable in just a few weeks with Invisalign Touch-Up treatment. This is especially popular among adults in Butte County who had braces as teens.
Retainers for Invisalign Patients: Yes, even if you used clear aligners, you still need a retainer! Invisalign straightens teeth, but only retainers keep them that way long-term.
Tips for Retainer Care:
- Clean daily with cool water and a soft brush
- Avoid hot water (it can warp retainers)
- Store in the case when not wearing
- Bring your retainer to every check-up
Conclusion: Retainers are the key to protecting your investment. Let us help you keep your smile exactly where it should be—beautifully straight.
? Proudly serving Chico, Paradise, Orland, and all surrounding communities ? Book your free consultation or retainer replacement at www.carrorthochico.com
